Research Intern

Terrapin is an environmental consulting and strategic planning firm committed to improving the human environment through green development, policy, and related research. At the request of governments and private developers, Terrapin's expertise has shaped the outcome of large-scale planning and design projects around the world. In pursuing high-performance, environmentally responsive design, we have worked with some of the world's most innovative planners and architects.

Through strategies for whole-systems thinking and integrated design, we challenge design teams to push towards goals such as "net zero" energy and restorative, regenerative buildings. We believe in finding solutions that effectively mimic natural systems, so that the human environment and the natural world can achieve ever-greater balance. We also believe that high-performance design means fundamentally improving human factors like health and productivity, while improving overall economic and environmental performance.

Position Overview: 

The Terrapin Internship Program has been developed to support research and education within the field of sustainable development as it relates to our daily efforts to fulfill our mission to lead the development of a restorative economy.

While an intern will formally report to one manager, we also believe that broad exposure to the firm's work makes for a valuable internship experience. Terrapin is focused in multiple areas including zero energy buildings, sustainable infrastructure, biofuels, and research on biophilia and biomimicry. Interns will gain exposure to these diverse topical areas of Terrapin, and will assist other project managers as necessary. Possible tasks and projects may include: research, developing presentations, attending charrettes, and supporting project delivery. Interns will have the opportunity to participate in events and lectures relevant to their work and interests.

Responsibilities: 

Tasks May Include:

• Manage implementation of Terrapin's day-to-day support research and long-term research projects.
• Support Terrapin with meeting project deadlines: Participate in team meetings, relevant project conference calls, and other office activities.
• Give topical presentations to office on a bi-monthly basis.
• Maintain and update internal wiki resource.
• Supporting team's business development efforts, which may include assistance with project proposals.

Qualifications: 

We are looking for candidates currently accepted to a Master's Degree program with a passion for sustainable development and its ability to impact people and shape communities. Working professional candidates who are in the process of transitioning careers are also encouraged to apply.

The ideal candidate should demonstrate strong leadership skills, initiative, and maturity, and be comfortable working in a small, entrepreneurial, team-oriented environment. Experience in planning, project management, or community development is preferred. Candidates should also possess strong written, analytical and organizational skills.

Interns will be asked to commit to a minimum of 3 months on a full-time (35-40 hours/week) basis with the possibility of extending the internship for an additional 3 months. This is a paid internship.

• Working towards or recently completed a Master's degree, preferably with coursework in Real Estate, Engineering, Architecture, Environmental Science, Urban Planning, or related fields.
• Experience or interest in any of the following topics: environmental/energy policy, infrastructure (water, wastewater, transportation, energy), real estate development, land management, green building, green chemistry, urban ecology, biomimicry, or other related fields.
• Strong analytical and technical skills
• Fluency in English language; Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to be both a leader and a team player
• Good Research skills, internet navigation abilities, and ability to identify quality data sources; properly and diligently cite sources
• Ability to manage many complex tasks simultaneously
• Fluency in Microsoft Word and Excel
• Fluency in Adobe InDesign and Illustrator a plus
• LEED accreditation a plus

Duration:

The Internship Program will begin in May 2010. Although Terrapin is flexible on the duration of the internship, a minimum of 6 months is preferred. The nature of the internship makes shorter internships less advantageous.

Compensation: Interns are expected to pay the costs incurred of traveling to and living in New York. A monthly stipend will be offered to help interns offset some of this cost.

Application Deadline: Tuesday, March 16, 2010.

To Apply:

Complete applications for the Research Intern position will include the following:

1. Résumé or Curriculum Vitæ, including the name and phone number of 3 references
2. A statement (400-600 words) describing your interest in sustainable design and how you would like to contribute to the larger effort at Terrapin
3. Writing Sample, minimum 3 pages, that you believe represents your communication ability
4. 3 letters of reference: Letters may be from the same references listed on resume
5. Letter certifying status with a graduate-level university program (if applicable)

NOTE: Incomplete applications will not be reviewed unless they are accompanied by a written explanation as to why an application requirement could not be fulfilled.

We encourage you to visit our website in early February when information regarding the application process will be posted. Thank you for your interest in Terrapin.